Stop Dog From Jumping Up
25 May 2009
Dogs jumping up is a common problem for dog owners. Many dog owners unwittingly encourage this behavior by enthusiastically responding to a puppy that scampers towards them and makes small jumps at their knees.
The puppy quickly realizes that jumping up gets him lots of hugs and kisses. Your dog doesn’t realize that there is a difference between dogs jumping up as a small puppy and as a large adult.
To him, the fact that he’s a few months older is no reason for him to stop jumping by choice. It will be necessary for you to teach your dog that it is no longer acceptable for him to jump up.
When is jumping unacceptable?
Many dog owners with small or toy dogs view dogs jumping up as a sign of affection and excitement. Happily, these dogs will probably not knock someone over with their energetic behavior, and their diminutive size would only make them intimidating to a very small child. However, it is rare for someone to welcome strange dogs jumping up on them, no matter how small they are. In a nutshell, you should teach your dog the “off” command in case you aren’t close enough to stop the jumping behavior.
The “no jump” or “off” command is essential for owners of large dogs. Large dogs are often taller than a human when they stand on their hind legs – just think how scary that would be for a small child! In addition, their weight is often enough to knock over an adult. Being scratched or bruised by your own dog is bad but it’s much worse if it happens to someone else. Responsible dog owners will make sure their dog is equipped with a recall to the “off” command.
What’s the reason for dogs jumping?
Most dogs jump up out of excitement. Some dogs only jump up when their owner returns from work after being away all day. If your dog jumps up on you at that time, he is simply jumping for joy. A less common yet serious reason is a dog jumping up to display his dominance over the person he is jumping on.
Your dog is obviously displaying his joy and enthusiasm if the only time he jumps up is during playtimes or when he is thrilled to see you. If the jumping occurs under a variety of circumstances, it is likely that your dog is displaying dominance behavior, which is a sign of a communication or attitude problem. This will require modifications in the way you and your dog relate to each other, with emphasis being placed on your role as top dog.
Tip: Secrets to Dog Training has some excellent resources to help you deal with dominant dog behavior. To stop your dog’s jumping behavior, visit Dogs Jumping.
Your reaction to dogs jumping up on you is key to whether the behavior is repeated or not. In order to stop dogs from jumping, consistent training will be required. He must be taught that jumping is always inappropriate. You shouldn’t allow your dog to jump one day, then forbid this behavior the next day. To a dog, your work and play clothing look the same - if you allow him to jump up some of the time, he’ll attempt to do it whenever he feels the inclination.
How to stop your dog from jumping up
Most dog trainers agree that the most effective way to put an end to annoying behaviors in your dog can also be the easiest. If he jumps up, you need to walk away. Your dog should be given no attention whatsoever, which includes negative attention like pushing, correcting and yelling.
Here’s how this training technique works: when your dog jumps on you, immediately turn your back on him, fold your arms, turn your face away, and don’t make eye contact with him. Dogs are able to interpret your body language so your posture will make it clear to him that jumping is inappropriate.
All too often, people make the mistake of ignoring the dog’s bad behavior rather than ignoring the dog. The behavior is not being ignored (you’re not carrying on as if the jumping isn’t happening, you are actively ignoring your dog). You can easily let dogs know that you are not pleased by giving them the cold shoulder treatment. When your attention and reaction are removed, your dog will quickly calm down.
The correct time to give him praise
You can praise him as soon as his four paws touch the floor. Once your dog’s paws have touched the floor, you may give him attention even if you were ignoring him a moment earlier.
For more information on how to stop dog jumping, visit Dog Jumping Up.
